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Exeter's most controversial resident branded a 'hate speaker' by opponents

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by Patrick Phelvin

15:02, 17 Oct 2017Updated15:15, 17 Oct 2017

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It was supposed to be a genteel series of talks about books and literature - then Exeter controversialist Katie Hopkins was invited to talk.

Organisers of the Lewes Speakers Festival now say they are considering cancelling Hopkins’ scheduled appearance at the event.

The television personality and columnist has been booked to talk at the festival next month, a decision that has been met with outrage on social media. Sussex is known for it's liberal attitudes while Hopkins cultivates a right-of-centre image.

Manager of the festival Marc Rattray admitted that pulling the plug on Hopkins’ talk was a possibility, telling the Bighton and Hove Argus that "there was a chance that we will not be able to field her".

"We don’t want to upset all of Lewes," Mr Rattray said.

Controversial broadcaster Katie Hopkins grew up in Bideford in North Devon

“If it does go ahead, I’d want people to talk to her and have rational discussion. But it might not be worth it. I need to talk to people at the council.”

“I believe in rational discussion but that might not be shared by her critics who think she’s inciting hatred.”

Mr Rattray added that he and Lewes Speakers Festival were not “endorsing” Hopkins’ views by selecting her to speak at the event.

He said: “I wasn’t totally aware of all the things that go around her in her life. But she’s obviously provocative and says extreme things sometimes. She’s trying to get a reaction.”

Commenters on the Lewes Forum website attacked the decision, with NoToHate writing: “Hate Speaker Katie Hopkins has been invited to speak unchallenged at the Lewes Speakers Festival. Such invitations give legitimacy to a racist bigot.”

Old Malling added: “I’m all for free speech but Katie Hopkins just says provocative and offensive things to further her own career. I’m not supporting that under any circumstances.”